How did you feel about the ending of the novel? did you enjoy it or were you disappointed by it? Explain. Brandon Wickholm, May 20th 2009 8:58 pm
The ending of the book I find was actualy good. I think it raps up all the loose ends and puts it all together and makes the ending really good. I liked how it finished with Boo Radley walking home with Scout, I think it really means a lot to her because she got to see life from his perspective. The ending didn't disappoint me at all I find it was really good. I had many feelings about the ending but the feeling i had the most was anger. The reason it was anger was because I really didn't want it to finish. Dragan Vojnovic, May 21, 2009, 9:59 pm So far in the book what are your favorite parts and your not so favorite parts? Why? explain. Brittany Thompson, May 18th 2009, 5:24pm
So far in the book things have been ok and some have been exciting and some even boring to me. But my favorite part in the book was when Jem and Scout met their new neighbor Dill. I enjoyed reading about what they did for fun and what they did to stay entertained. My least favorite part in the book was the trial because the book's plot became slower and i lost my enterest for it. But the book isn't that bad, yes, there are a few parts that I wish were more exciting and parts where I think should have had more detail, but over all its a pretty good book. Dragan Vojnovic, May 18th, 2009, 6:35 pm
Well so far I really liked the book, i would have to say that my favorite part in the book was the trial, because you got to hear all these different characters perspectives on what happened, and you really get a feel of how the justice system was so unfair to blacks. My least favorite part in the book was probably the beginning, the book sorta started off slow for me, but as I progressed into it I got really into it, but yeah, I actually really enjoy this book. Brandon Wickholm, May 19th, 2009, 5:52 pm
My least favorite part of this novel was the beginning. At first I thought it would be just a boring tale about young children coming of age in the south and holding certain superstisions. I did however come to really enjoy the way in wich Atticus' wisdom was weaved and constant throughout the plot. One example of advice that reocurred thorughout the novel came apparent in the ending with this statement: "Atticus was right. One time he said you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them." (page 270) I loved the word choice as it made it a more interesting novel. My favorite part was the trial as it held plenty of tension and made me want to read the book even more. The ending as well was a great part; the interaction between Atticus and Scout when he is putting her to sleep was relatable to me and calming to read. It felt like the author was grasping with that final statement that Atticus, in fact is a wonderful but uncredited father. Amelia, May 19th 2009, 8:15pm.
In the book i had a lot of favorite parts especially in the middle and in the end because that is when the book really started to take my interest. I though the trial was a really good part in the book because there was drama and some emotion with fighting. In the beginning of the book it was so boring all it really talked about was children growing up and there life style the only thing that took my interest at the start was Boo Radley. He took my interest because he was just so weird and there was just something not normal about him which spiced the story up, all the other characters and there descriptions were just boring and plan but Radley's wasn't. Another thing that I loved about the book was that it was quite detailed which I liked a lot and the choices of words they used was sometimes really funny. '' nothing but a nigger-lover'' I just though it was so unexpected with that type of languge.''I most positvely will'' p 177..The way the worded some of that was different but gave a lot of character to the book and made it good. Things that i didn't like was how in the book some parts were just so boring and drawn out when it really didn't have to be. Brittany Thompson, May 19th 2009, 8:59pm.
Well i've really enjoyed this book. I would have to say my favorite part would be the trial, because it you got to hear all the different views of what happened between Mayella and Tom, and it was kind of a suprising part of the book for me. I would have to say my least favorite part would be the beginning of the book aswell because it seemed to be really slow starting, and it was all about the kids growing up. Some things i really enjoyed about this book were the different types of characters, and how the book was written, like the language, it made the book more interesting for me. Some things i didn't like about the book was some parts were boring and the author would drag out something through out several pages of the book when it wasn't really nessacary. Kendra Stewart. May 24th, 9:03 pm
As the Robinson trial was going on you heard from four different people, Mr. Tate, Mr.Ewell, Mayella Ewell, and Tom Robinson. Out of these four people, who's story did you find most believable, and who's story did you find least believable ? Explain, and be sure to use examples. Kendra, May 11th, 3:12pm.
Well I beleive that Tom's story was the most believable, because well for one, when Mayella said he put both hands around her neck and choked her, and then threw her on the ground ( page 180 ) its actually impossible because tom is cripple in one hand from the cotton gin (page 186 ) so how in the world did he put BOTH hands on Mayella's neck, he didn't thats how. i rest my case (: oh and Kendra its Mayella hehe. Brandon, May 11th 2009, 6:55
Out of the four I believed Tom Robinson the most. When Atticus asks "You never asked him to do odd jobs for you before?" (page 184) and Mayella responds "I mighta. There was several niggers around." (page 184) this shows that Mayella wasn't even all that sure about who he was. Where Tom's arm is crippled you would think it would distinguish him from the other blacks of the community and be an easy reminder if she had asked him to work for her. Mayella is such an unloved poor girl that seeing compassion from this man would perhaps make her love him. "The jury learned the following things: their relief check was far from enough to feed the family, and there was strong suspicion that Papa drank it up anyway-..."(page 183) I see the possiblity that she came onto Tom but at the same time Atticus raises points towards her father abusing her. "Except when he's drinking?" (page 183) this quote is Atticus' question to Mayella about her father which she responds to reluctantly yet firmly with "My paw's never touched a hair o'my head in my life," (page 184). Although beleivable, maybe not true. Amelia,
May 11th 2009, 9:24pm.
I think out of all the four people that were on trial i differently believe Tom Robinson the most because his a for loyal and truthful man and he would never hurt anyone. The reason is that Mayella is the most least believable it basically seemed through the whole trial she was just freaking it and had everything already planned out so people would believe her. Back in the day when women said they got raped and especially by a black man they would think it's automatically true. Almost Everyone was just so prejudice against blacks in the trial. In the trial some things happened which made Tom Robinson not guilty with some things Mayella said during the trial really seemed like she was coming on to him which was true.''you say you asked Tom Robinson to come chop up a -what was it?''A chiffarobe a old dresser full of drawers on one side'' p 184 ..This proves that she must of had a thing for him because she always asked him to do stuff for her around her house even when there wasn't anything that really needed fixing.''Do you remember him beating you about the face?'' '' No I don't recollect if he hit me. I mean yes I do, he hit me''. p 185.. That quote i find really means she's hiding something because the way she just no then she had to think about it which means she was obviously lying. Brittany Thompson, May 12th 2009, 10:57pm.
I think that Tom's was the most believable, mostly because Atticus had already proved that the Ewells were lying. He acted normally, while the Ewells acted defensive and nervous, and they acted as though they had a plan, and ment to stick to it, which I found most suspisious. Lisa, May 13th, 9:40 PM
As we look at the trial four people take a turn and tell their stories. The most believable story would be Toms because he is a truthful man that wouldn't lay a hand on anyone. I think that Mayella's was the least believable because in my opinion she doesnt like Tom because he is a different race. I think that the court would rather say that Mayella was telling the truth and not bother with Tom's side of the story because when a lady back then got raped or sexually assulted by a black man they automatically think its the black's fault. I dont really understand why Mayella would lie, but when she said that he put both hands on her neck on pg 180 it got me thinking cuz he was crippled on one hand and wouldnt have been able to choke her or anything. "Do you rmember him beating you about the face?" "No I don't recolloct if he hit me. I mean yes he hit me" pg 185......I think Mayella is trying to cover something up becase the way she is answering the question. And i agree with everyones opinion. Dragan Vojnovic, May 15th 2009, 10:40pm
I agree with everyone that Tom Robinson is the good guy in the trial and the innocent one and that Mayella is just a very insecure women with a very bad mind and a horible drunk of a father. The whole way through you always could tell she was lying straight threw her teeth like when she said ''I don't know how he done it, but he done it-I said it all happened so fast I---..''p 186.. That means she was really not sure how to answer that question at all in the writing of that passage it seemed like she was stuttering really badly. At least in the end of the trial Tom Robinson was found not guilty after all because it was really Mayella's dad how hit her in the face and did stuff to her. Brittany Thompson, May 17th 2009, 7:14pm.
Mayella was a very unloved child as we saw in earlier quotes. Where she made a pass on Tom she no longer wanted to be shamed by him when seeing him everyday as he walked by. When Mr. Ewell caught Mayella in the act he was probably very ashamed and disgusted. I think he could have chased him off then beat Mayella out of his embarrasement, shame and anger. We learn that Mayella wants Tom out of her sight and mind and the only way she thinks to acheive that is to prosecute him in court and send him away. As white people of that time they probably were thinking they had advantage over Tom and a leg up to win. We see this through the implied situation of the times and circumstances. The fact that the defending lawyer doesn't really believe who he is protecting shows alot. "Did Mr. Gilmer-? Sh-h. Nothing new, just the usual." (page 202) this shows that the defending lawyer didn't put near as much ever as he could have. Amelia, May 17th 2009, 7:45pm.
I agree with everyones comments and response that Tom's story is the most believable and that Mayella is just a mean women who wants attention. I think she wants him to go to jail so she can be the town hero for putting a black man behind bars. When Mr. Ewell saw Mayella in the act he probably was very embaressed because she was around a black man and talking to him. I think Mr. Ewell would have made sure Tom was far gone and then would have hurt Mayella for doing that. During the trial Mayella was doing everything possible to make sure that Tom was going to go behind bars. "I don't know how he done it, but he done it" pg 186...This means that Mayella wasn't sure anymore what really happened and was probably still trying to make something up again like she was doing since teh trial started. Dragan Vojnovic, May 17th, 2009, 10:36pm
When Scout asked Atticus if she could go to Calpurnia’s, what was Alexandra’s reaction? Why do you think she reacted the way she did? Dragan, May 4th, 2009, 8:45pm
When Scout asks Atticus if she could go to Calpurnia's Alexandra reacts in a bad manner. She isn't pleased whatsoever at the thought of her white neice going to a black church. "You may not." (page 136) is the blunt response Alexandra gives when Scout asks her father if she can go with Calpurnia the following Sunday to First Purchase. When her father insists that Cal is good with the children, that he trusts her and that it's a safe area, Alexandra attacks with saying that they should let Cal go. "We don't need her now." (page 137) I think she reacts this way because of her hatred towards blacks and her ignorance towards them. It is her way of finding a quick fix to cut out Cal. She says this, in my opinion to make sure Cal won't undo any of the potential strides she took towards making Scout more ladylike. Amelia, May 6th 2009, 10:06pm.
When Scout asks her father Atticus if she can go with Calpurnia, aunt Alexandra jumps in the conversation and says "You may not" page 136. This is the response coming from aunt Alexandra when Scout asks Atticus if she can go. After Alexandra says that Atticus says that Calpurnia ia a great person and that he trusts her. But Alexandra replies by saying " We dont need her"page 137. I think that aunt Alexandra doesn't like Calpurnia becasue she is black. I think is she got to know Calpurnia a bit more she would see that she is a great person even though she is a different race. Dragan, May 7th 2009, 7:21pm
I think Aunt Alexandra's reaction when Scout asked Atticus if she could go to Calpurnia's was not very nice. She should of though it out more then just saying no right away becasue Calpurnia is like a mother to Jem and Scout. I think Alexandra should of tooken the answer better but the good thing was that Atticus bascially stood up for Cal by saying to Aunt Alexandra '' besides, I don't think the children've suffered one bit from her having brought them up'' p.137..It's good that Atticus spoke up about how great Calpurnia is no matter what her race is or how are got brough up. I think Alexandra reacted this way just because she has always hated blacks growing up and she probably thinks that if Scout goes to church with all of them that she will pick up certain characterristics they do or even start hanging out with them. Aunt Alexandra would hate if any of that happened because she just has such hatred towards all blacks no matter what. Brittany Thompson, May 7th 2009, 7:47pm.
When she asked if she could go and visit Calpurnia, Alexandra freaks out and says she certainly may not, which I think is rather unreasonable. I think she reacted like that because she is a slave to her society, and she gives no room for anyone who's white to be friends with someone who's black, or to accept that black people are humans too. Lisa, May 7th, 8:33 PM
Brittany makes a great point with the thought that Alexandra might be thinking that the children would pick up certain characteristics from the blacks. An example of a not so acceptable trait during that time would be the manner in wich blacks spoke. "They's my comp'ny," said Calpurnia. Again I thought her voice strange: she was talking like the rest of them." (page 119) This quote is Scout's thoughts towards Calpurnia when they are in First Purchase Church. Although Scout and Jem were surrounded by language like this and different customs such as not using hymnals to sing in church, they found the language not appropriate and the method to sing bizarre. "I looked at Jem, who was looking at Zeebo from the corners of his eyes. I didn't believe it either, but we had both heard it." (page 121) However I think they had a certain appreciation towards how the black people of their community interacted. A kind of endearment was created with them seeing that other world. Amelia, May 7th 2009, 11:17pm.
I think Alexandra reacted in a negative way, because she didn't want Scout and Jem to be around the blacks. On page 136 it says "Yessum, and she promised me I could come out to her house some afternoon. Atticus, I'll go next Sunday if it's all right, can I ? Cal said she'd come get me if you were off in the car. You mat not. Aunt Alexandra said it." Also Alexandra tried to get Atticus to fire Calpurnia, because she felt the kids didn't need her anymore, but in my oppinion she just didn't want her in the house because she was black, and didn't want her to have a negative influence on Jem and Scout. On page 137 it says "You've got to face it sooner or later and it might as well be tonight. We don't need her now." Kendra, May 7th, 10:51pm
Everyone makes a great point that Calpurnia is a great person no matter if shes black or white and i think Alexandria really should of reacted a lot better then she did but Atticus was good and stood up for her. Also a great thing about Atticus is that he really shows Scout what's right and what's wrong but the situation like Scout was not being the nicest to her but '' Atticus turned his head and pinned me to the wall with his good eye. His coice was deadly:''First apologize to your aunt'' p.136 It shows Scout how to really be polite more and when you do something wrong you apologize after. Over all Aunt Alexandria should of not gotten so mad in the first place about them going to a all black church. Brittany Thompson, May 10th, 3:51pm.
I agree with everyone's oppinion on Calpurnia and the way that Alexandra reacted. I also agree with what you guys say about Atticus, it was good of him to stick up for Calpurnia the way he did. On page 136 it says "Atticus's voice was even: "Alexandra, Calpurnia's not leaving this house until she wants to. You my think otherwise, but I couldn't have got along without her alll these years. She's a faithful member of this family and you'll simply have to accept thins the way they are. Besides, sister, I don't want you working your head off for us --- you've no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did". Kendra, May 10th, 10:08 pm.
tupid or mad or something of that like. It's harder on the children because they have to go to school each day, with all the other kids knowing about it, and they have to learn how to deal with the ridicule and general disrespect. They start to learn how hard their father's job is, and how he must feel sometimes when he has other cases like this one. I don't think that they really understood their father's job when they were younger, but they begin to fully apriciate it now, when they're older and they are now getting some of the same reactions from people at school as their father does when he's at work, or out shoping or something. Lisa, April 28th, 5:52 PM (PS, sorry that I couldn't get on last night and post a question, I had marching band practice.)
I think that the Robinson trial is causing kind of a bad relationship between then Finche's and their relatives and neighbours because everyone is always making comments to the Finch kids, as well as Atticus himself. For example on page 83 Francis says "He's nothin' but a nigger-lover!" In that passage Francis is referring to Atticus. I think that this situation is more difficult for Jem and Scout because they are to young to understand why Atticus is doing it, and everyone is going around telling them that their father is being a discrace to the town and that he is no good for anything. For example on page 102 Mrs. Dubose says "Your father's no better then the niggers and trash he works for!" So to me the kids take it harder, because they don't like hearing people say different things like that about their father. Kendra, April 28th, 5:32pm
With the looming Robinson trial happening Scout, Atticus and Jem are all affected. The social preassures directed at Atticus would be extreme and very difficult for even a grown man with a steady head to deflect. "This case, Tom Robinson's case, is something that goes to the essence of a man's conscience-Scout, I couldn't go to church and worship God if I didn't try to help that man." (page 104) This quote shows that Atticus was very compassionate, self-aware and independant. Some sentiments the family would feel from their neighbors and family would be resentement, anger and frustration. "Not only a Finch waiting on tables but one in the courthouse lawing for niggers!" (page 101) This was said by Mrs. Dubose due to her frustration towards blacks and the situation. Scout and Jem are both young children who are very impressionable and worrisome. With Jem also being an adolescent he would be more likely insecure. The children hate that the town picks them apart and hurts their father's values. "Jem was scarlet. I pulled at his sleeve, and we were followed up the sidewalk by a philippic on our family's moral degeneration..." (page 102) This shows that anger came out of the children when their father was judged. Amelia, April 30th 11:54pm
The looming Robinson trial is affectin a lot of people, but mostly Atticus, Jem and Scout. I think that Atticus is a courageous because he is defending a black man in that time period. Everyone in the town doesn't like that Atticus is defending a black man. Mrs. Dubose is one of the Finche's neighbors who makes a lot of comments towards Atticus and to his kids. " Not only a Finch waiting on tables but one on the courthouse lawing for niggers!" pg 101...This is said by Mrs. Dubose because of her fustration towards the blacks. I think the Robinson trial is hard for the kids because everyone is making comments to them at school. Scout gets mad at Cecil Jacobs and her cousin Francis because they make rude comments towards her father. They call him a nigger lover. Dragan, May 3rd, 10:54am.
The looming Robinson trial has a great effect on the finch's relation with the entire town even certain family members like Francais. It's really hard for Atticus because his getting a lot of mean words said to him even by his own friends and relatives there saying stuff like ''you nigger lover''. Its causing the family a lot of stress like Atticus but his staying strong and setting a good example for Jem and Scout. I think Atticus is doing the right thing by standing up and fighting for what he thinks is the right thing to do. It's hard for Jem and Scout to because they are so young they don't fully understand the situation. The whole situation is really tough their friendships are now really hard to deal with some of the opinons of the town people, because a lot is going against them. A example of a situation is where Francis says to Scout "I guess it ain't your fault if Uncle Atticus is a nigger-lover besides, but I'm here to tell you that it certainly does mortify the rest of the family" p.83..That would probably be hard to hear coming from family about your own father and Scout is so young to even understand it. Brittany Thompson , May 3rd 2009 1:17pm.
I agree with what Brittany is saying regarding the stress Atticus would be feeling and him having a need to stay strong for his children. Due to the fact that the kids are fairly young most likely they can't see their family members in a provoking, unfriendly manor. When Francis says this to Scout its provokes a deep hatred "...it's bad enough he lets you all run wild, but now he's turned out a nigger-lover we'll never be able to walk the streets of Maycomb again."(page 83) This caused Scout to rebute with violence. Up to that point in their lives family would have been a happy, friendly environment. Because of Scout's reaction it cause her Uncle Jack to "lick" her. The children are more vulnerable than their father which would then create more insecurities which cause difficulties. Amelia, May 3rd 2009, 5:30pm.
I agree with Amelia as well that Scout is getting violent at school because of this whole Robinson trial is really taking a toll on the whole family. It's basically going to hurt there family because already uncle Jack and other relatives are not agreeing for what Atticus believes in, and I think that family should come first and Atticus's family should be more supportive in what he believe's in because it's just the right thing to do. It's not that great neither on the uncle's part to show violence in the children life because there just so young, they won't know any better.Brittany Thompson.May 3rd 2009,8:20pm.
I agree with everyone's opinions about the looming Robinson trial. Jem and Scout have it hard because they are still young to understand what really is going on especially Scout. When Francis says that Atticus is a nigger lover Scout becomes violent towards him and stands up for her father. Jem and Scout believe that their father is doing the right thing but uncle Jack and rest of the relatives don't really like what Atticus is doing. I think that Atticus is staying really strong even though a lot of bad things are being said about him. I also think he is staying strong so he shows a good example for Jem and Scout. Jem and Scout are becoming more violent because they can't that the insults anymore. The whole town is against them and i know that Atticus is trying his best to stay strong. All that pressure is putting stress on his family. I also think he is being respectful for defending a black man because he also has a black cook as part of their family. Dragan, May 3rd, 2009, 11:06 pm Throughout the chapters we see the family dynamics between Scout, Jem and Atticus. We learn that their relationship is very formal and that the kids arn't as close as families today may be. We also see that Calpurnia acts as somewhat of a mother figure. Do you think that the relationship between the kids and their cook is a good one? Do you think their relationship with their father may be impacted by the times and/or other factors? Explain. Amelia, April 20th 2009
I think that the relationship between Calpurnia and the kids isn't that good and its not a bad one either. Although Calpurnia is trying to act like their mom in many ways such as caring for them and cooking and trying to deal with their problems at times. The kids do appriciate her for doing that but i think Jem and Scout think of her as a good friend rather then a mom. I do think that they love her as a mom but they know no one can replace their mom. The relationship between the kids and their father Atticus isn't the same as what some of us might have with our dads. The kids don't have a mother anymore so their father doesn't have a lot of free time to spend with them. In the book it says he works a lot as a lawyer. Since he is a lawyer he doesn't have too much time to take care of their problems. Also they call their father Atticus instead of da or daddy. I think they call him Atticus to be more respectful towards him. So i think that also might impact their relationship with him. Dragan, April 21st 2009.
To answer the first question in my oppinion the relationship between Scout and Calpurnia isn't very good in the beginning, because their not close to eachother, they have had some fights in their past and it seems like Scout doesn't like her very much. For example on page 6 Scout says "Our battles were epic and one-sided. Calpurnia always won, mainly because Atticus always took her side. She had been with us ever since Jem was born, and I had felt her tyrannical presence as long as I could remember." But as the book progresses their relationship starts to get better. For example on page 34 Sout says "For some reason, my first year of school had wrought a great change in our relationship: Calpurnia's tyranny, unfairness, and meddling in my business had faded to gentle grumblings of generl disapproval." I'm not so sure about the relationship between Jem and Caluprnia, because they haven't really mentioned much about it, except for the fact Calpurnia wishes Scout would be more like her brother, because he is well behaved, so to me that kind of makes it seem like they have a good reltionship. For example on page 6 Scout says "She was always ordering me out of the kitchen, asking why i couldn't behave as well as Jem..." For the second question I don't think that Scout and Jem have a close relationship with their father but i do agree that it is a good one, because they call him Atticus instead of dad, and at the beginning of the book it mentioned that Atticus is a lawyer so he works alot and that would mean he doesn't get to send much time with the kids. For example on page 4 it Scout says " ... My father, Atticus Finch, went to Montgomery to read law...". Kendra, April 21st, 6:11pm.
I think that since Scout never knew her mother, she might think of Calpurnia as more of a mother than Jem, because he remembers their mother. I also think that their relationship is an affectionate, but slightly distant one. He never plays with them during the day, but he has taught Scout to read, so he obviously cares about her a lot, and he lets some of the bad stuff that Jem does slide, so he must care about him a fair bit as well. Lisa, April 22, 7:09 PM.
While the kids are growing up with Calpurnia we don't get an inside look. In a way you just see their sudden, current relationship at the beginning of the book. Their relationship isn't a very good one during that time "She was always ordering me out of the kitchen, asking me why I couldn't behave as well as Jem when she knew he was older, and calling me home when I wasn't ready to come." p.6. Scout seems constantly irritated by her and tries to avoid her presence. With this being said she does see her as a disciplinary figure. "...our summertime boundaries (within calling distance of Calpurnia)..." p. 6 shows that the kids did obey her. I believe the relationship between Atticus and his children is fairly good. The kids have mutual respect with their father and find him intelligent "Jeam and I were accustomed to our father's last-will-and-testament diction, and we were at all times free to interrupt Atticus for a translation when it was beyond our understanding." p.31 Amelia Secord April 22nd 2009 7:23pm
In my opinion the relationship between the kids and Calpurnia isn't that good at all. Although Calpurnia acts like a mother to them she also bosses them around way too much. "...Our summer boundaries (within calling distance of Calpurnia).." p. 6 shows that she didn't let them go any further than three houses away from their own. Scout also hates Calpurnia because she keeps dragging Scout into the kitchen and telling her what to do and to act more like Jem. But I think the relationship between Atticus and the kids is a really good one. Yeah, he works no stop because he has to. He isn't the best father but he helps the kids with their needs as much as he can. After all he does teach Scout how to read. Dragan Vojnovic, April 22nd 2009 8:02
During the book we see that the kids didn't have have the best relationship with Calpurnia, but throughout the book we see that the relationship is starting to build up to a good one. I agree with everyone that in the old days that parents never really had much time with there kids like today parents always speed at least some of the time with there children. Due to the stock market crash the parents probably were a lot more uptight with there jobs and tried to work and get money for there families as much as possible. Atticus is a very good father figure and he makes the kids learn new things and makes them independent. ''Yes,'' said our father, when Jem asked him if we could go over and sit by Miss Rachel's fishpool with Dill, as this was his last night in Maycomb''.p.50 shows that Atticus lets his kids go out and be independent. Brittany Thompson, April 26 2009 1:02pm
I agree that Calpurnia does act like a mother to them and i think that she sees herself as kind of their mother, but she also doesn't let them do very much, and bosses them around. For example on page 6 ot says "...Our summer boundaries, whithin callin distance of Calpurnia..". But, i don't think that the kids see her as a mother figure, just because they know that no one can replace their mother, no matter who it is. Kendra, April 26th, 4:39pm.
I think in my opinion that Scout never really had anyone to look up to a mother figure and now Calpurnia is in her life now and always acts and basically controls her life just like a mother would do. Over all i think Jem and Scout do appreciate Calpurnia as there own mother even though they didn't get along at first but there relationship will differently grow as the book goes on.''Calpurnia bent down and kissed me.I ran along, wondering what had come over her. She has wanted to make up with me, that was it''.p.29. What Calpurnia did in the part in the story is something a mother would do to make up with there child. Brittany Thompson,April 26th 2009 5:24pm
Amelia, Lisa, Dragan, Kendra, Brittany, Brandon
How did you feel about the ending of the novel? did you enjoy it or were you disappointed by it? Explain. Brandon Wickholm, May 20th 2009 8:58 pm
The ending of the book I find was actualy good. I think it raps up all the loose ends and puts it all together and makes the ending really good. I liked how it finished with Boo Radley walking home with Scout, I think it really means a lot to her because she got to see life from his perspective. The ending didn't disappoint me at all I find it was really good. I had many feelings about the ending but the feeling i had the most was anger. The reason it was anger was because I really didn't want it to finish. Dragan Vojnovic, May 21, 2009, 9:59 pm
So far in the book what are your favorite parts and your not so favorite parts? Why? explain. Brittany Thompson, May 18th 2009, 5:24pm
So far in the book things have been ok and some have been exciting and some even boring to me. But my favorite part in the book was when Jem and Scout met their new neighbor Dill. I enjoyed reading about what they did for fun and what they did to stay entertained. My least favorite part in the book was the trial because the book's plot became slower and i lost my enterest for it. But the book isn't that bad, yes, there are a few parts that I wish were more exciting and parts where I think should have had more detail, but over all its a pretty good book. Dragan Vojnovic, May 18th, 2009, 6:35 pm
Well so far I really liked the book, i would have to say that my favorite part in the book was the trial, because you got to hear all these different characters perspectives on what happened, and you really get a feel of how the justice system was so unfair to blacks. My least favorite part in the book was probably the beginning, the book sorta started off slow for me, but as I progressed into it I got really into it, but yeah, I actually really enjoy this book. Brandon Wickholm, May 19th, 2009, 5:52 pm
My least favorite part of this novel was the beginning. At first I thought it would be just a boring tale about young children coming of age in the south and holding certain superstisions. I did however come to really enjoy the way in wich Atticus' wisdom was weaved and constant throughout the plot. One example of advice that reocurred thorughout the novel came apparent in the ending with this statement: "Atticus was right. One time he said you never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them." (page 270) I loved the word choice as it made it a more interesting novel. My favorite part was the trial as it held plenty of tension and made me want to read the book even more. The ending as well was a great part; the interaction between Atticus and Scout when he is putting her to sleep was relatable to me and calming to read. It felt like the author was grasping with that final statement that Atticus, in fact is a wonderful but uncredited father. Amelia, May 19th 2009, 8:15pm.
In the book i had a lot of favorite parts especially in the middle and in the end because that is when the book really started to take my interest. I though the trial was a really good part in the book because there was drama and some emotion with fighting. In the beginning of the book it was so boring all it really talked about was children growing up and there life style the only thing that took my interest at the start was Boo Radley. He took my interest because he was just so weird and there was just something not normal about him which spiced the story up, all the other characters and there descriptions were just boring and plan but Radley's wasn't. Another thing that I loved about the book was that it was quite detailed which I liked a lot and the choices of words they used was sometimes really funny. '' nothing but a nigger-lover'' I just though it was so unexpected with that type of languge.''I most positvely will'' p 177..The way the worded some of that was different but gave a lot of character to the book and made it good. Things that i didn't like was how in the book some parts were just so boring and drawn out when it really didn't have to be. Brittany Thompson, May 19th 2009, 8:59pm.
Well i've really enjoyed this book. I would have to say my favorite part would be the trial, because it you got to hear all the different views of what happened between Mayella and Tom, and it was kind of a suprising part of the book for me. I would have to say my least favorite part would be the beginning of the book aswell because it seemed to be really slow starting, and it was all about the kids growing up. Some things i really enjoyed about this book were the different types of characters, and how the book was written, like the language, it made the book more interesting for me. Some things i didn't like about the book was some parts were boring and the author would drag out something through out several pages of the book when it wasn't really nessacary. Kendra Stewart. May 24th, 9:03 pm
As the Robinson trial was going on you heard from four different people, Mr. Tate, Mr.Ewell, Mayella Ewell, and Tom Robinson. Out of these four people, who's story did you find most believable, and who's story did you find least believable ? Explain, and be sure to use examples. Kendra, May 11th, 3:12pm.
Well I beleive that Tom's story was the most believable, because well for one, when Mayella said he put both hands around her neck and choked her, and then threw her on the ground ( page 180 ) its actually impossible because tom is cripple in one hand from the cotton gin (page 186 ) so how in the world did he put BOTH hands on Mayella's neck, he didn't thats how. i rest my case (: oh and Kendra its Mayella hehe. Brandon, May 11th 2009, 6:55
Out of the four I believed Tom Robinson the most. When Atticus asks "You never asked him to do odd jobs for you before?" (page 184) and Mayella responds "I mighta. There was several niggers around." (page 184) this shows that Mayella wasn't even all that sure about who he was. Where Tom's arm is crippled you would think it would distinguish him from the other blacks of the community and be an easy reminder if she had asked him to work for her. Mayella is such an unloved poor girl that seeing compassion from this man would perhaps make her love him. "The jury learned the following things: their relief check was far from enough to feed the family, and there was strong suspicion that Papa drank it up anyway-..."(page 183) I see the possiblity that she came onto Tom but at the same time Atticus raises points towards her father abusing her. "Except when he's drinking?" (page 183) this quote is Atticus' question to Mayella about her father which she responds to reluctantly yet firmly with "My paw's never touched a hair o'my head in my life," (page 184). Although beleivable, maybe not true. Amelia,
May 11th 2009, 9:24pm.
I think out of all the four people that were on trial i differently believe Tom Robinson the most because his a for loyal and truthful man and he would never hurt anyone. The reason is that Mayella is the most least believable it basically seemed through the whole trial she was just freaking it and had everything already planned out so people would believe her. Back in the day when women said they got raped and especially by a black man they would think it's automatically true. Almost Everyone was just so prejudice against blacks in the trial. In the trial some things happened which made Tom Robinson not guilty with some things Mayella said during the trial really seemed like she was coming on to him which was true.''you say you asked Tom Robinson to come chop up a -what was it?''A chiffarobe a old dresser full of drawers on one side'' p 184 ..This proves that she must of had a thing for him because she always asked him to do stuff for her around her house even when there wasn't anything that really needed fixing.''Do you remember him beating you about the face?'' '' No I don't recollect if he hit me. I mean yes I do, he hit me''. p 185.. That quote i find really means she's hiding something because the way she just no then she had to think about it which means she was obviously lying. Brittany Thompson, May 12th 2009, 10:57pm.
I think that Tom's was the most believable, mostly because Atticus had already proved that the Ewells were lying. He acted normally, while the Ewells acted defensive and nervous, and they acted as though they had a plan, and ment to stick to it, which I found most suspisious. Lisa, May 13th, 9:40 PM
As we look at the trial four people take a turn and tell their stories. The most believable story would be Toms because he is a truthful man that wouldn't lay a hand on anyone. I think that Mayella's was the least believable because in my opinion she doesnt like Tom because he is a different race. I think that the court would rather say that Mayella was telling the truth and not bother with Tom's side of the story because when a lady back then got raped or sexually assulted by a black man they automatically think its the black's fault. I dont really understand why Mayella would lie, but when she said that he put both hands on her neck on pg 180 it got me thinking cuz he was crippled on one hand and wouldnt have been able to choke her or anything. "Do you rmember him beating you about the face?" "No I don't recolloct if he hit me. I mean yes he hit me" pg 185......I think Mayella is trying to cover something up becase the way she is answering the question. And i agree with everyones opinion. Dragan Vojnovic, May 15th 2009, 10:40pm
I agree with everyone that Tom Robinson is the good guy in the trial and the innocent one and that Mayella is just a very insecure women with a very bad mind and a horible drunk of a father. The whole way through you always could tell she was lying straight threw her teeth like when she said ''I don't know how he done it, but he done it-I said it all happened so fast I---..''p 186.. That means she was really not sure how to answer that question at all in the writing of that passage it seemed like she was stuttering really badly. At least in the end of the trial Tom Robinson was found not guilty after all because it was really Mayella's dad how hit her in the face and did stuff to her. Brittany Thompson, May 17th 2009, 7:14pm.
Mayella was a very unloved child as we saw in earlier quotes. Where she made a pass on Tom she no longer wanted to be shamed by him when seeing him everyday as he walked by. When Mr. Ewell caught Mayella in the act he was probably very ashamed and disgusted. I think he could have chased him off then beat Mayella out of his embarrasement, shame and anger. We learn that Mayella wants Tom out of her sight and mind and the only way she thinks to acheive that is to prosecute him in court and send him away. As white people of that time they probably were thinking they had advantage over Tom and a leg up to win. We see this through the implied situation of the times and circumstances. The fact that the defending lawyer doesn't really believe who he is protecting shows alot. "Did Mr. Gilmer-? Sh-h. Nothing new, just the usual." (page 202) this shows that the defending lawyer didn't put near as much ever as he could have. Amelia, May 17th 2009, 7:45pm.
I agree with everyones comments and response that Tom's story is the most believable and that Mayella is just a mean women who wants attention. I think she wants him to go to jail so she can be the town hero for putting a black man behind bars. When Mr. Ewell saw Mayella in the act he probably was very embaressed because she was around a black man and talking to him. I think Mr. Ewell would have made sure Tom was far gone and then would have hurt Mayella for doing that. During the trial Mayella was doing everything possible to make sure that Tom was going to go behind bars. "I don't know how he done it, but he done it" pg 186...This means that Mayella wasn't sure anymore what really happened and was probably still trying to make something up again like she was doing since teh trial started. Dragan Vojnovic, May 17th, 2009, 10:36pm
When Scout asked Atticus if she could go to Calpurnia’s, what was Alexandra’s reaction? Why do you think she reacted the way she did? Dragan, May 4th, 2009, 8:45pm
When Scout asks Atticus if she could go to Calpurnia's Alexandra reacts in a bad manner. She isn't pleased whatsoever at the thought of her white neice going to a black church. "You may not." (page 136) is the blunt response Alexandra gives when Scout asks her father if she can go with Calpurnia the following Sunday to First Purchase. When her father insists that Cal is good with the children, that he trusts her and that it's a safe area, Alexandra attacks with saying that they should let Cal go. "We don't need her now." (page 137) I think she reacts this way because of her hatred towards blacks and her ignorance towards them. It is her way of finding a quick fix to cut out Cal. She says this, in my opinion to make sure Cal won't undo any of the potential strides she took towards making Scout more ladylike. Amelia, May 6th 2009, 10:06pm.
When Scout asks her father Atticus if she can go with Calpurnia, aunt Alexandra jumps in the conversation and says "You may not" page 136. This is the response coming from aunt Alexandra when Scout asks Atticus if she can go. After Alexandra says that Atticus says that Calpurnia ia a great person and that he trusts her. But Alexandra replies by saying " We dont need her"page 137. I think that aunt Alexandra doesn't like Calpurnia becasue she is black. I think is she got to know Calpurnia a bit more she would see that she is a great person even though she is a different race. Dragan, May 7th 2009, 7:21pm
I think Aunt Alexandra's reaction when Scout asked Atticus if she could go to Calpurnia's was not very nice. She should of though it out more then just saying no right away becasue Calpurnia is like a mother to Jem and Scout. I think Alexandra should of tooken the answer better but the good thing was that Atticus bascially stood up for Cal by saying to Aunt Alexandra '' besides, I don't think the children've suffered one bit from her having brought them up'' p.137..It's good that Atticus spoke up about how great Calpurnia is no matter what her race is or how are got brough up. I think Alexandra reacted this way just because she has always hated blacks growing up and she probably thinks that if Scout goes to church with all of them that she will pick up certain characterristics they do or even start hanging out with them. Aunt Alexandra would hate if any of that happened because she just has such hatred towards all blacks no matter what. Brittany Thompson, May 7th 2009, 7:47pm.
When she asked if she could go and visit Calpurnia, Alexandra freaks out and says she certainly may not, which I think is rather unreasonable. I think she reacted like that because she is a slave to her society, and she gives no room for anyone who's white to be friends with someone who's black, or to accept that black people are humans too. Lisa, May 7th, 8:33 PM
Brittany makes a great point with the thought that Alexandra might be thinking that the children would pick up certain characteristics from the blacks. An example of a not so acceptable trait during that time would be the manner in wich blacks spoke. "They's my comp'ny," said Calpurnia. Again I thought her voice strange: she was talking like the rest of them." (page 119) This quote is Scout's thoughts towards Calpurnia when they are in First Purchase Church. Although Scout and Jem were surrounded by language like this and different customs such as not using hymnals to sing in church, they found the language not appropriate and the method to sing bizarre. "I looked at Jem, who was looking at Zeebo from the corners of his eyes. I didn't believe it either, but we had both heard it." (page 121) However I think they had a certain appreciation towards how the black people of their community interacted. A kind of endearment was created with them seeing that other world. Amelia, May 7th 2009, 11:17pm.
I think Alexandra reacted in a negative way, because she didn't want Scout and Jem to be around the blacks. On page 136 it says "Yessum, and she promised me I could come out to her house some afternoon. Atticus, I'll go next Sunday if it's all right, can I ? Cal said she'd come get me if you were off in the car. You mat not. Aunt Alexandra said it." Also Alexandra tried to get Atticus to fire Calpurnia, because she felt the kids didn't need her anymore, but in my oppinion she just didn't want her in the house because she was black, and didn't want her to have a negative influence on Jem and Scout. On page 137 it says "You've got to face it sooner or later and it might as well be tonight. We don't need her now." Kendra, May 7th, 10:51pm
Everyone makes a great point that Calpurnia is a great person no matter if shes black or white and i think Alexandria really should of reacted a lot better then she did but Atticus was good and stood up for her. Also a great thing about Atticus is that he really shows Scout what's right and what's wrong but the situation like Scout was not being the nicest to her but '' Atticus turned his head and pinned me to the wall with his good eye. His coice was deadly:''First apologize to your aunt'' p.136 It shows Scout how to really be polite more and when you do something wrong you apologize after. Over all Aunt Alexandria should of not gotten so mad in the first place about them going to a all black church. Brittany Thompson, May 10th, 3:51pm.
I agree with everyone's oppinion on Calpurnia and the way that Alexandra reacted. I also agree with what you guys say about Atticus, it was good of him to stick up for Calpurnia the way he did. On page 136 it says "Atticus's voice was even: "Alexandra, Calpurnia's not leaving this house until she wants to. You my think otherwise, but I couldn't have got along without her alll these years. She's a faithful member of this family and you'll simply have to accept thins the way they are. Besides, sister, I don't want you working your head off for us --- you've no reason to do that. We still need Cal as much as we ever did". Kendra, May 10th, 10:08 pm.
tupid or mad or something of that like. It's harder on the children because they have to go to school each day, with all the other kids knowing about it, and they have to learn how to deal with the ridicule and general disrespect. They start to learn how hard their father's job is, and how he must feel sometimes when he has other cases like this one. I don't think that they really understood their father's job when they were younger, but they begin to fully apriciate it now, when they're older and they are now getting some of the same reactions from people at school as their father does when he's at work, or out shoping or something. Lisa, April 28th, 5:52 PM (PS, sorry that I couldn't get on last night and post a question, I had marching band practice.)
I think that the Robinson trial is causing kind of a bad relationship between then Finche's and their relatives and neighbours because everyone is always making comments to the Finch kids, as well as Atticus himself. For example on page 83 Francis says "He's nothin' but a nigger-lover!" In that passage Francis is referring to Atticus. I think that this situation is more difficult for Jem and Scout because they are to young to understand why Atticus is doing it, and everyone is going around telling them that their father is being a discrace to the town and that he is no good for anything. For example on page 102 Mrs. Dubose says "Your father's no better then the niggers and trash he works for!" So to me the kids take it harder, because they don't like hearing people say different things like that about their father. Kendra, April 28th, 5:32pm
With the looming Robinson trial happening Scout, Atticus and Jem are all affected. The social preassures directed at Atticus would be extreme and very difficult for even a grown man with a steady head to deflect. "This case, Tom Robinson's case, is something that goes to the essence of a man's conscience-Scout, I couldn't go to church and worship God if I didn't try to help that man." (page 104) This quote shows that Atticus was very compassionate, self-aware and independant. Some sentiments the family would feel from their neighbors and family would be resentement, anger and frustration. "Not only a Finch waiting on tables but one in the courthouse lawing for niggers!" (page 101) This was said by Mrs. Dubose due to her frustration towards blacks and the situation. Scout and Jem are both young children who are very impressionable and worrisome. With Jem also being an adolescent he would be more likely insecure. The children hate that the town picks them apart and hurts their father's values. "Jem was scarlet. I pulled at his sleeve, and we were followed up the sidewalk by a philippic on our family's moral degeneration..." (page 102) This shows that anger came out of the children when their father was judged. Amelia, April 30th 11:54pm
The looming Robinson trial is affectin a lot of people, but mostly Atticus, Jem and Scout. I think that Atticus is a courageous because he is defending a black man in that time period. Everyone in the town doesn't like that Atticus is defending a black man. Mrs. Dubose is one of the Finche's neighbors who makes a lot of comments towards Atticus and to his kids. " Not only a Finch waiting on tables but one on the courthouse lawing for niggers!" pg 101...This is said by Mrs. Dubose because of her fustration towards the blacks. I think the Robinson trial is hard for the kids because everyone is making comments to them at school. Scout gets mad at Cecil Jacobs and her cousin Francis because they make rude comments towards her father. They call him a nigger lover. Dragan, May 3rd, 10:54am.
The looming Robinson trial has a great effect on the finch's relation with the entire town even certain family members like Francais. It's really hard for Atticus because his getting a lot of mean words said to him even by his own friends and relatives there saying stuff like ''you nigger lover''. Its causing the family a lot of stress like Atticus but his staying strong and setting a good example for Jem and Scout. I think Atticus is doing the right thing by standing up and fighting for what he thinks is the right thing to do. It's hard for Jem and Scout to because they are so young they don't fully understand the situation. The whole situation is really tough their friendships are now really hard to deal with some of the opinons of the town people, because a lot is going against them. A example of a situation is where Francis says to Scout "I guess it ain't your fault if Uncle Atticus is a nigger-lover besides, but I'm here to tell you that it certainly does mortify the rest of the family" p.83..That would probably be hard to hear coming from family about your own father and Scout is so young to even understand it. Brittany Thompson , May 3rd 2009 1:17pm.
I agree with what Brittany is saying regarding the stress Atticus would be feeling and him having a need to stay strong for his children. Due to the fact that the kids are fairly young most likely they can't see their family members in a provoking, unfriendly manor. When Francis says this to Scout its provokes a deep hatred "...it's bad enough he lets you all run wild, but now he's turned out a nigger-lover we'll never be able to walk the streets of Maycomb again."(page 83) This caused Scout to rebute with violence. Up to that point in their lives family would have been a happy, friendly environment. Because of Scout's reaction it cause her Uncle Jack to "lick" her. The children are more vulnerable than their father which would then create more insecurities which cause difficulties. Amelia, May 3rd 2009, 5:30pm.
I agree with Amelia as well that Scout is getting violent at school because of this whole Robinson trial is really taking a toll on the whole family. It's basically going to hurt there family because already uncle Jack and other relatives are not agreeing for what Atticus believes in, and I think that family should come first and Atticus's family should be more supportive in what he believe's in because it's just the right thing to do. It's not that great neither on the uncle's part to show violence in the children life because there just so young, they won't know any better.Brittany Thompson.May 3rd 2009,8:20pm.
I agree with everyone's opinions about the looming Robinson trial. Jem and Scout have it hard because they are still young to understand what really is going on especially Scout. When Francis says that Atticus is a nigger lover Scout becomes violent towards him and stands up for her father. Jem and Scout believe that their father is doing the right thing but uncle Jack and rest of the relatives don't really like what Atticus is doing. I think that Atticus is staying really strong even though a lot of bad things are being said about him. I also think he is staying strong so he shows a good example for Jem and Scout. Jem and Scout are becoming more violent because they can't that the insults anymore. The whole town is against them and i know that Atticus is trying his best to stay strong. All that pressure is putting stress on his family. I also think he is being respectful for defending a black man because he also has a black cook as part of their family. Dragan, May 3rd, 2009, 11:06 pm
Throughout the chapters we see the family dynamics between Scout, Jem and Atticus. We learn that their relationship is very formal and that the kids arn't as close as families today may be. We also see that Calpurnia acts as somewhat of a mother figure. Do you think that the relationship between the kids and their cook is a good one? Do you think their relationship with their father may be impacted by the times and/or other factors? Explain. Amelia, April 20th 2009
I think that the relationship between Calpurnia and the kids isn't that good and its not a bad one either. Although Calpurnia is trying to act like their mom in many ways such as caring for them and cooking and trying to deal with their problems at times. The kids do appriciate her for doing that but i think Jem and Scout think of her as a good friend rather then a mom. I do think that they love her as a mom but they know no one can replace their mom. The relationship between the kids and their father Atticus isn't the same as what some of us might have with our dads. The kids don't have a mother anymore so their father doesn't have a lot of free time to spend with them. In the book it says he works a lot as a lawyer. Since he is a lawyer he doesn't have too much time to take care of their problems. Also they call their father Atticus instead of da or daddy. I think they call him Atticus to be more respectful towards him. So i think that also might impact their relationship with him. Dragan, April 21st 2009.
To answer the first question in my oppinion the relationship between Scout and Calpurnia isn't very good in the beginning, because their not close to eachother, they have had some fights in their past and it seems like Scout doesn't like her very much. For example on page 6 Scout says "Our battles were epic and one-sided. Calpurnia always won, mainly because Atticus always took her side. She had been with us ever since Jem was born, and I had felt her tyrannical presence as long as I could remember." But as the book progresses their relationship starts to get better. For example on page 34 Sout says "For some reason, my first year of school had wrought a great change in our relationship: Calpurnia's tyranny, unfairness, and meddling in my business had faded to gentle grumblings of generl disapproval." I'm not so sure about the relationship between Jem and Caluprnia, because they haven't really mentioned much about it, except for the fact Calpurnia wishes Scout would be more like her brother, because he is well behaved, so to me that kind of makes it seem like they have a good reltionship. For example on page 6 Scout says "She was always ordering me out of the kitchen, asking why i couldn't behave as well as Jem..." For the second question I don't think that Scout and Jem have a close relationship with their father but i do agree that it is a good one, because they call him Atticus instead of dad, and at the beginning of the book it mentioned that Atticus is a lawyer so he works alot and that would mean he doesn't get to send much time with the kids. For example on page 4 it Scout says " ... My father, Atticus Finch, went to Montgomery to read law...". Kendra, April 21st, 6:11pm.
I think that since Scout never knew her mother, she might think of Calpurnia as more of a mother than Jem, because he remembers their mother. I also think that their relationship is an affectionate, but slightly distant one. He never plays with them during the day, but he has taught Scout to read, so he obviously cares about her a lot, and he lets some of the bad stuff that Jem does slide, so he must care about him a fair bit as well. Lisa, April 22, 7:09 PM.
While the kids are growing up with Calpurnia we don't get an inside look. In a way you just see their sudden, current relationship at the beginning of the book. Their relationship isn't a very good one during that time "She was always ordering me out of the kitchen, asking me why I couldn't behave as well as Jem when she knew he was older, and calling me home when I wasn't ready to come." p.6. Scout seems constantly irritated by her and tries to avoid her presence. With this being said she does see her as a disciplinary figure. "...our summertime boundaries (within calling distance of Calpurnia)..." p. 6 shows that the kids did obey her. I believe the relationship between Atticus and his children is fairly good. The kids have mutual respect with their father and find him intelligent "Jeam and I were accustomed to our father's last-will-and-testament diction, and we were at all times free to interrupt Atticus for a translation when it was beyond our understanding." p.31 Amelia Secord April 22nd 2009 7:23pm
In my opinion the relationship between the kids and Calpurnia isn't that good at all. Although Calpurnia acts like a mother to them she also bosses them around way too much. "...Our summer boundaries (within calling distance of Calpurnia).." p. 6 shows that she didn't let them go any further than three houses away from their own. Scout also hates Calpurnia because she keeps dragging Scout into the kitchen and telling her what to do and to act more like Jem. But I think the relationship between Atticus and the kids is a really good one. Yeah, he works no stop because he has to. He isn't the best father but he helps the kids with their needs as much as he can. After all he does teach Scout how to read. Dragan Vojnovic, April 22nd 2009 8:02
During the book we see that the kids didn't have have the best relationship with Calpurnia, but throughout the book we see that the relationship is starting to build up to a good one. I agree with everyone that in the old days that parents never really had much time with there kids like today parents always speed at least some of the time with there children. Due to the stock market crash the parents probably were a lot more uptight with there jobs and tried to work and get money for there families as much as possible. Atticus is a very good father figure and he makes the kids learn new things and makes them independent. ''Yes,'' said our father, when Jem asked him if we could go over and sit by Miss Rachel's fishpool with Dill, as this was his last night in Maycomb''.p.50 shows that Atticus lets his kids go out and be independent. Brittany Thompson, April 26 2009 1:02pm
I agree that Calpurnia does act like a mother to them and i think that she sees herself as kind of their mother, but she also doesn't let them do very much, and bosses them around. For example on page 6 ot says "...Our summer boundaries, whithin callin distance of Calpurnia..". But, i don't think that the kids see her as a mother figure, just because they know that no one can replace their mother, no matter who it is. Kendra, April 26th, 4:39pm.
I think in my opinion that Scout never really had anyone to look up to a mother figure and now Calpurnia is in her life now and always acts and basically controls her life just like a mother would do. Over all i think Jem and Scout do appreciate Calpurnia as there own mother even though they didn't get along at first but there relationship will differently grow as the book goes on.''Calpurnia bent down and kissed me.I ran along, wondering what had come over her. She has wanted to make up with me, that was it''.p.29. What Calpurnia did in the part in the story is something a mother would do to make up with there child. Brittany Thompson,April 26th 2009 5:24pm